Chief Constable James Vaughan is to remain in charge of Devon and Cornwall Police until August 2028 after agreeing to extend his contract.
The move will provide continuity of leadership for the force during a period of significant change, including the Government’s plans to abolish the Police and Crime Commissioner role in May 2028.
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez confirmed Mr Vaughan had agreed to remain in post beyond the planned changes to the policing governance system.
Mr Vaughan was appointed Chief Constable in December 2024 and has since led a programme of organisational improvement focused on strengthening performance, rebuilding public confidence and improving outcomes for communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Ms Hernandez said: “I am delighted Chief Constable James Vaughan has agreed to stay on until August 2028. Since taking up the role in December 2024, James has provided strong and effective leadership during a period of significant change for Devon & Cornwall Police.”
She said there had been “important cultural improvements” within the organisation which were now translating into improvements in performance and service delivery.
“The force is no longer subject to enhanced monitoring by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services,” she said. “We are seeing improvements in 101 and 999 call answering times, and Operation Resolve is returning more officers to frontline policing where they are needed most.”
Ms Hernandez added: “These are important achievements and demonstrate the progress being made across the force. I know many share my view that James’ decision to continue serving the people of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is extremely welcome news.”
She said there remained “much work to do” but added: “I am confident the force will continue to benefit from James’ experience, commitment and leadership over the next two years.”
Mr Vaughan said he was “honoured” to continue serving as Chief Constable and thanked the Commissioner for the confidence placed in him.
He said: “While there is still more work to do, we have made important progress together thanks to the dedication and professionalism of our officers, staff and volunteers.
“We are improving the service we provide to the public, strengthening our performance and continuing to build trust and confidence in policing.”
He said he looked forward to continuing to work with colleagues and partners over the next two years.
“We will continue to tackle crime, protect vulnerable people and deliver the high-quality policing service our communities deserve,” he said.
The contract extension means Mr Vaughan will remain in charge as the force continues its improvement programme and prepares for further changes to policing governance.
The government’s planned abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners in May 2028 means his extended tenure will cover the transition to a new structure for overseeing policing across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The extension is intended to provide stability while the force continues its work to improve public services, tackle crime and protect vulnerable people across the region.
Devon and Cornwall Chief Constable to Stay Until August 2028